Start Mapping Out Your Educational Experience
Attendees can expect to participate in expert-led, educational sessions focused on delivering better care to patients through updated practices and groundbreaking research. Each pre-meeting workshop, rapid-fire session, vendor symposim and breakout session has been designed to promote knowledge-sharing and correspond with one of six tracks critical to our specialty:
Note: Sessions and schedule subject to change. Click here to view the educational schedule by day. Click here to view the speaker disclosure information.
Procedures and Considerations for Setting Exercise Intensity Using Live Case Demonstrations
Wednesday, September 17 | 7:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Cemal Ozemek; Paul Gallo
Overview: Improving a patient's cardiorespiratory fitness highly depends on accurately setting the exercise intensity to levels objectively shown to elicit a response. This pre-meeting workshop will enhance the cardiopulmonary rehab professional’s knowledge and ability to customize a patient’s training regimen relative to their needs and abilities. This session will combine didactic primers that will familiarize audience members of the foundational concepts of exercise testing, intensity and prescription, and will uniquely be followed by live demonstrations of a participant on exercise equipment.
CE Credit(s): 3.50
Learning Objectives:
- Define the objective and subjective methods by which exercise intensity is defined.
- Describe the methods used to calculate exercise intensity relative to the individual's profile.
- Demonstrate how objective and subjective exercise prescription methods are applied and adjusted in an exercising participant.
Hands-on Bootcamp: Master your pulmonary rehabilitation assessment/interventions skills
Wednesday, September 17 | 7:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Speaker(s): Missy Von Luehtre; Maria Correa; Lisa Smith; Aimee Kizzar
Overview: This session will equip PR/CR professionals from novice to expert with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively evaluate patients for Pulmonary Rehabilitation. By understanding the key components of a comprehensive evaluation, including exercise assessment, medications, dyspnea, oxygen therapy and more you will be better able to identify suitable candidates for PR and develop effective individualized treatment plans. This will ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes, enhanced quality of life, and reduced hospitalizations for individuals with pulmonary conditions.
CE Credit(s): 3.50
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the key components of a comprehensive exercise assessment for patients with pulmonary conditions, including the 6-Minute Walk Test, functional fitness assessments and balance/frailty assessments.
- Describe and demonstrate accurate use of inhaled medication devices (MDI, DPI, SMI and nebulizers tx) and recognize the benefit of an InCheck Dial for assessment.
- Explain the significance of other devices used in the management of pulmonary patients, including respiratory muscle trainers, peak flow meters, airway clearance techniques/devices and various oxygen delivery systems and interfaces.
- Review dyspnea assessment and breathing retraining techniques.
- Give examples of common pulmonary assessments for various ITP domains.
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Kinesiophobia: Understanding Fear of Exercise as a Barrier in Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation
Wednesday, September 18 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Diann Gaalema; Samantha Ferris; Katherine Menson
Overview: While generalized anxiety is commonly recognized as a risk factor for those in secondary prevention, the challenges around anxiety associated with specific activities are less well known. Anxiety around movement can be particularly challenging given that physical activity is critical for improvement in both pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation. This session will examine the effects of exercise and movement-specific anxiety in both cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Additionally, potential treatments for these issues as well as practical ways to support patients will be discussed.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize exercise and movement-related anxiety in patients.
- Summarize the effects of these specific types of anxiety on patients in pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation
- Identify practical methods for supporting patients struggling with exercise and movement-related anxiety.
Family Matters: Engaging Patients' Families and Responding to Difficult Interactions
Thursday, September 18 | 5:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Galina Kitchens
Overview: In response to questions I received during my past years presentation, this session is intended to spark a discussion about ways patient's families could be involved in CR/PR treatment. Research suggests that family involvement is crucial for positive outcomes for cardiac and pulmonary patients. The session would also focus on ways to work with difficult family members and situations.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss role of family members' involvement in improving outcomes for cardiac and pulmonary patients rehab
- Analyze ways to efficiently engage family members in rehabilitation process
- Analyze techniques of working with difficult family members and their counterproductive effects on patients' outcomes
The Great Weight Debate: GLP-1s vs. Good Habits - The Role of GLP-1 Agonists in Cardiac Rehabilitation
Friday, September 19 | 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Moderator: Hank Wu
Speaker(s):
Pro GLP1: Tracey Taveira
Pro Lifestyle: Anna Biggins
Overview: As the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists continues to expand, cardiac rehabilitation professionals face an increasingly urgent question: Should these medications be routinely prescribed for weight loss in cardiac rehab settings? This timely and thought-provoking debate brings together three expert voices to explore both sides of this critical issue. A clinical pharmacist will argue that weight loss is crucial for improving cardiac outcomes and that GLP-1 agonists should be a standard tool in cardiac rehab. Conversely, a registered dietitian will advocate that diet quality and sustainable lifestyle modifications offer greater long-term benefits for cardiac health than weight loss alone. A cardiologist will moderate the session, introducing real-world case studies and prompting each expert to respond with practical, evidence-informed arguments tailored to patient scenarios. Attendees can expect an engaging and balanced discussion designed to deepen understanding and spark meaningful conversation about the role of weight loss, diet quality, and pharmacologic interventions in optimizing cardiac rehab outcomes.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the basic mechanism of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss.
- Evaluate the benefits and risks of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss among cardiac rehabilitation patients.
- Compare the use of GLP-1 agonist to lifestyle management interventions for cardiac rehabilitation patients.
- Discuss practical considerations for working with cardiac rehabilitation patients who are prescribed GLP-1 agonists.
Does Your Lightbulb Really Want to Change: Use of Motivational Interviewing Techniques Across Disciplines to Promote Positive Change and Address Resistance
Friday, September 19 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Antonella Rica; Galina Kitchens
Overview: An interdisciplinary presentation from the perspective of a psychologist and a dietitian regarding the use of Motivational Interviewing, an empirically validated approach to promoting behavioral and lifestyle change, by various disciplines involved in Cardiac/Pulmonary Rehab programs. The use of Motivational Interviewing techniques by medical professionals has been widely shown to improve treatment adherence and outcomes. The session will include introduction to Motivational Interviewing techniques and rationale, detailed instructions on use of these techniques with patients who are struggling to make positive health and behavioral changes in their lives as well as ways to address low motivation and resistance to change. The session will incorporate small group exercises and roleplay to promote learning of the techniques.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the key concepts and steps in motivational interviewing
- Describe the use of motivational interviewing in Cardiac/Pulmonary rehabilitation programs and identify ways it can produce better results with patients than other instructional or interviewing methods
- Use MI techniques to facilitate readiness for change
- Identify motivation for change by recognizing and reinforcing change talk
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Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Clinical Cardiology
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Using International Flavors to Spice Up Cardiac Rehabilitation
Wednesday, September 17 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Gabriela Ghisi; Dion Candelaria; Priya Chockalingam; Rongjing Ding
Overview: In this 40th Anniversary session of the AACVPR Annual Meeting, we will explore how global experiences in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) can inform practices and policies in the United States (U.S.), including in low-resource settings. This session combines lessons from innovative approaches in low-resource countries with insights derived from registry data, focusing on improving CR accessibility and program performance. International speakers will share practical strategies, scalable models, and challenges overcome in diverse healthcare settings, aiming to enhance accessibility, equity, and effectiveness in CR programs globally. We will also highlight how these international perspectives can be applied to U.S. programs, with an emphasis on overcoming local barriers to CR implementation and optimizing outcomes through the integration of global strategies.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Describe how global perspectives in CR can enhance programs in the U.S., with a focus on addressing local challenges.
- Identify key barriers to CR access in low-resource settings and explore how these barriers have been successfully addressed in international contexts.
- Examine how registry data can inform global CR quality improvement strategies, to enhance patient outcomes and experiences, and identify lessons learned from international programs.
- Gain insights into scalable CR delivery models and innovative strategies successfully implemented in low-resource settings and discuss how these can be adapted to U.S. programs for better outcomes.
Bridging the Gap: Digital Technologies for Accessible and Effective Cardiac Rehabilitation
Thursday, September 18 | 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): Jessica Golbus; Sherrie Khadanga; Patrick Dunn
Overview: The proposed session would review best practices in the delivery of telehealth cardiac rehabilitation (CR) with a focus on issues of accessibility, patient engagement, and equity. Specifically the talk would review the different telehealth delivery formats (virtual, remote, and hybrid approaches) and the evidence to support the various formats and models. The talk would then discuss how to implement a telehealth CR program including, wearable devices, mobile applications, and artificial intelligence to improve outcomes for diverse patient populations while overcoming traditional barriers to care.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe non-traditional models and formats for cardiac rehabilitation delivery. Understand the transformative role of digital technologies, such as telehealth, wearable devices, and artificial intelligence, in augmenting traditional cardiac rehabilitation programs to improve accessibility and outcomes.
- Apply practical strategies for integrating hybrid and home-based rehabilitation models, leveraging real-world insights and best practices to enhance patient care.
- Evaluate approaches to promote equity and accessibility in digital cardiac rehabilitation, addressing health disparities through technology-centered solutions.
- Explore emerging digital tools, including mobile applications and wearable devices, to boost patient engagement and adherence, supported by case studies and success stories.
AACVPR Position Statement: Volume of Exercise to Optimize Outcomes in Cardiac Rehabilitation
Thursday, September 18 | 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Carl Lavie; Theresa Beckie
Overview: This session will provide participants with a review of the recently published AACVPR Position Statement entitled: Volume of exercise to Optimize Outcomes in Cardiac Rehabilitation. The central components of the exercise prescription including frequency, intensity, time, mode, and progression. An overview of the goals for the volume of aerobic exercise to optimize long-term outcomes for participants in cardiac rehabilitation will be provided. Examples are provided to illustrate how to integrate the various aspects of the exercise prescription to achieve the optimal volume of aerobic exercise.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the central components of the exercise prescription in cardiac rehabilitation.
- Identify the goals for the volume of aerobic exercise for participants in cardiac rehabilitation.
- Discuss the strategies for integrating the components of the exercise prescription to achieve the optimal volume of aerobic exercise in cardiac rehabilitation.
What is New in Cardiac Rehab? Advances, Management Strategies, and Tailored Approached for Special Populations
Thursday, September 18 | 2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Ashley Carlisle; Carmen Terzic; Bryan Taylor
Overview: Evolving research and society guidelines recommend exercise and/or cardiac rehabilitation (CR) for several special populations. In this breakout session, we will detail the potential benefits of innovative and current evidence-based CR approaches in individuals post aortic dissection, in those with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or spinal cord injury (SCI), and in oncocardiology patients. We will identify knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to allow optimal delivery of CR in these patients, and emphasize the challenges and strategies in managing such individuals. Our aim is to provide healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to optimize care for these unique patient groups.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Summarize the evidence that exercise training and/or cardiac rehabilitation is beneficial in people post aortic dissection, in those with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or spinal cord injury (SCI), and in oncocardiology patients.
- Discuss the specific challenges and management strategies in cardiac rehabilitation for patients post aortic dissection, in those with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or spinal cord injury (SCI), and in oncocardiology patients.
- Describe the key considerations for exercise prescription and apply innovative strategies to tailor rehabilitation programs that meet the unique needs of these special populations, enhancing individual outcomes.
- Discuss practical applications and case insights to integrate into everyday clinical practice.
Cardiac Rehabilitation and the Complexities of Congenital Heart Disease: A Journey Through Ventricular Assist Devices and Adulthood
Thursday, September 18 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kendra Ward; Mira Shekaran; Kathleen Peters
Overview:
Advancements in medical and surgical care for patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) have improved survival significantly over the last several decades. Despite these improvements, CHD patients with heart failure may ultimately need heart transplantation. The number of adults with CHD now outnumbers the number of pediatric patients with CHD. Many Adult CHD (ACHD) patients have multiple morbidities that accompany them to early adulthood and most ACHD patients would benefit from cardiac rehabilitation (CR). We anticipate a growing need for CR providers to become familiar with the specific needs of the ACHD patient. In addition, it is becoming more common for CHD patients with heart failure to be supported with a ventricular assist device (VAD) as a bridge to transplant. While VAD patients are common in adult CR programs, CHD patients with VADs have important differences to consider.
In this session, the audience will learn how the growing CHD patient differs from the more typical adult CR patient. ACHD patients often have complex histories that include multiple cardiac surgeries with residual cardiac abnormalities, complex rhythms and devices with atypical programming, baseline desaturation, multisystem co-morbidities, and neurocognitive delays or differences. We will discuss VAD types and indications for the patient with CHD. We will review special considerations for exercise therapeutics and provide effective exercise techniques for improving cardiorespiratory health of this complex patient population. We will highlight core competencies and training protocols to support clinical independence and proficiency for the CHD exercise professional. We will discuss specific educational topics and outcome measures that are tailored to the ACHD patient and discuss creating ITPs focused on achieving patient-centered goals. While patients with ACHD and heart failure supported with a VAD qualify for CR, not all ACHD patients in need of CR have the typical diagnoses for billable cardiac rehab. We will review our approach to ensure CR insurance coverage for this population.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the physiology of common ACHD diagnoses and identify indications for CR in this population
- Describe and implement modified CR program exercise therapeutics to meet the needs of ACHD patients and VAD patients to deliver safe and effective care
- Identify appropriate educational content and outcome measures to achieve ACHD patient-centered goals
- Discuss VADs, how they function, and the importance of properly training and maintaining competencies for staff who deliver exercise therapeutics to this high-risk patient population
- Apply billing strategies to obtain CR coverage for ACHD patients
Substance Use and the Heart: Old Enemies and New Foes
Thursday, September 18 | 5:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Sherrie Khadanga; Diann Gaalema
Overview: While traditional cigarette consumption continues to decline it is still a substantial source of preventable harm. And now new substances are gaining in popularity, the use of both e-cigarettes and marijuana has increased substantially. Recreational or medicinal marijuana is now legal in 37 states and e-cigarettes are now commonplace and have bypassed traditional combustible cigarettes use among adults. Among patients with cardiovascular disease, uses of these substances can have serious implications and Cardiac Rehab can serve as setting to perform an intervention. This session will examine the current evidence for and against marijuana, e-cigarettes, cigarettes and how to apply this information directly to clinical settings.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the current evidence re: e-cigarettes, smoking and vaping
- Review the literature regarding use of marijuana in those with cardiovascular disease
- Evaluate ways to implement cessation
Advancing Cardiometabolic Health: Optimizing Lipid and Glucose Management
Friday, September 19 | 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Tanesha Beebe-Peat; Sherrie Khadanga; Mary Finckenor
Overview: Effective management of hyperlipidemia and blood glucose is critical in reducing cardiovascular risk, particularly in patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation. This session will explore the latest advancements in lipid-lowering therapies, including statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid, inclisiran, and bile acid sequestrants, as well as the role of lipoprotein (a) and apoprotein B in identifying high-risk patients. We will also examine how continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has revolutionized glycemic management, offering real-time insights into blood sugar trends, variability, and overall control beyond A1c measurements. With the rise of over-the-counter CGMs, we will discuss their potential applications for individuals with diabetes, prediabetes, and even those seeking proactive cardiometabolic monitoring. By integrating strategies for both lipid and glucose control, healthcare professionals will gain practical tools to optimize cardiovascular outcomes and enhance patient care.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the different medication classes used to manage hyperlipidemia, including their mechanisms of action and common side effects.
- Define lipoprotein (a) and apoprotein B, and explain their roles as additional risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
- Explain key CGM metrics such as glucose variability (GV) and time in range (TIR), including their optimal targets for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
- Describe why CGM and blood glucose meter (BGM) readings may differ, and outline when BGM values should be used for clinical decision-making.
SET PAD Can Sit With Us: Assessing, Prescribing, and Progressing Exercise for Peripheral Arterial Disease
Friday, September 19 | 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): Anna Hornstein; Amanda Gardner
Overview: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is caused by atherosclerosis or a buildup of plaque in the arteries of the limbs resulting in reduced blood flow. Living with PAD can mean an individual has difficulty ambulating leading to reduced mobility and, in severe cases, require amputation. While current guidelines state walking is the best treatment for PAD, what do we do for individuals who cannot tolerate walking on a treadmill? In this session, we will cover the current guidelines and research-based strategies for treating PAD in a supervised exercise therapy for peripheral arterial disease (SET PAD) program. We will explore PAD pathophysiology, benefits of exercise, exercise assessment, prescription, and progression for both standing and seated modalities.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the pathophysiology of and risk factors for peripheral arterial disease and the physiological benefits of exercise in treating peripheral arterial disease.
- Perform an appropriate exercise assessment for individuals with peripheral arterial disease.
- Prepare an exercise prescription based on an exercise assessment for an individual with peripheral arterial disease
- Modify an exercise prescription to seated modalities for individuals with peripheral arterial disease unable to tolerate standing modalities.
One Big Happy Family: Improving Communication to Optimize Cardiac Rehabilitation Outcomes in a Multidisciplinary Setting
Friday, September 19 | 1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Melissa McMahon; Kathleen Peters
Overview: The delivery of high-quality cardiac rehabilitation (CR) requires effective communication between all members of the patient care team. The CR provider has a unique perspective on patient functional status based on the exertional nature of the therapies provided. Thus, it is critical for the exercise physiologist to have open avenues of regular communication with all care providers to provide critical updates and to participate in organized care delivery that optimizes patient outcomes. Our CR team delivers care in both the inpatient and outpatient settings and has navigated multiple complex communication challenges in these settings. We developed communication approaches with critical care physicians that improved visibility, trust, autonomy, and at times resulted in significant changes in medical care. We have also implemented scheduled communication opportunities with ancillary care providers including PT, OT, and speech therapy. We work closely with our heart center psychologist and social workers to address psychological and community level barriers to CR delivery. In this highly interactive session, we will discuss barriers to and potential solutions for effective communication between CR providers, medical care team, and ancillary service providers. We will provide examples of innovative approaches to effective communication that have directly benefited medical care in our CR program, facilitating discussions to generate a variety of creative approaches attendees can implement in their own centers.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Develop and implement effective communication strategies with all care team providers. Understand that critical care medical team communication will likely differ from a communication platform used to share information with ancillary service providers.
- Apply communication strategies to navigate challenging dynamics working within a multidisciplinary care delivery system.
- Implement EMR communication tools to augment noncritical but important communication.
Cardiac Rehabilitation: A Year in Review and A Look Ahead
Friday, September 19 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Randal Thomas; Murray Low
Overview: This session will explore both emerging trends and current research in cardiac rehabilitation. Attendees will learn about emerging trends shaping the future of CR and the latest studies published in 2024-2025. They will be challenged to adopt strategies based on these insights to ensure their programs thrive and patients receive the highest level of care.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Review the recently published scientific literature related to the role of physical activity and fitness as significant predictors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
- Analyze the interactions of physical activity, physical fitness, and their pleiotropic benefits for future implementation in cardiac rehabilitation programs.
- To better understand the scientific basis for delivery of Cardiac Rehabilitation service as a powerful therapeutic modality for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease.
- Explore potential progress in cardiac rehabilitation over the next 10 years.
- Understand implementation steps to move cardiac rehabilitation forward in the next 10 years.
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YES! You can eat that candy bar. Shifting the Nutrition Narrative: A weight inclusive approach to Cardiopulmonary Rehab
Wednesday, September 17 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Carolyn Feibig & Allison Miner
Overview: This session will equip healthcare professionals with basics of some weight-inclusive approaches, including Healthy at Every Size® (HAES) and the importance of the word we choose, to enhance cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Research supporting HAES will be discussed, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving cardiometabolic health, fitness, and overall quality of life—without focusing on weight loss as a primary outcome. This evidence challenges traditional weight-centric rehabilitation models and offers a more inclusive, patient-centered approach to care. We will explore the importance of language in creating a safe, open space for dialogue that fosters positive reinforcement and encourages patients to make small, sustainable changes. By utilizing active listening and understanding the stages of change, attendees will gain tools to support meaningful, long-term behavior modifications. This non-judgmental communication style will empower patients to feel heard, respected, and motivated to make lasting health improvements.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Master language techniques that promote motivation and engagement through positive, supportive communication
- Assess the stages of change to tailor patient support and facilitate long-term behavior progress.
- Describe the Healthy at Every Size® approach and the research supporting its effectiveness in improving cardiometabolic health.
- Identify strategies for creating inclusive, supportive environments for individuals of all body sizes, enhancing patient engagement.
- Explain the limitations of BMI as a health indicator and explore alternative, more inclusive methods for assessing patient health.
Fasting and Salt and Glucose – OH MY!
Friday, September 19 | 1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mary Hyer
Overview: This session will explore the benefits and safety of fasting for weight loss and cardiometabolic health, the role of sodium in heart disease, and nutritional interventions for diabetes management. Attendees will gain insights into different fasting methods, sodium moderation strategies, and tailored dietary and exercise plans for diabetic patients. This session aims to provide practical advice for improving overall health and managing chronic conditions effectively.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Review intermittent fasting in the cardio rehab patient
- Discuss the benefits of sodium moderation not elimination
- Discuss diabetes and nutritional intervention
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Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Medicine
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Management of Depression and Anxiety in COPD: Nuts and Bolts to Help Healthcare Professionals
Wednesday, September 17 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Abebaw Yohannes; Joel Hughes
Overview: This interactive, case-based lecture and discussion provides the latest evidence-based treatments that may help alleviate anxiety and depression in patients with COPD. The effectiveness of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions on psychosocial factors in patients with COPD will be explored. Furthermore, clinical tips in how to: administer brief screening tools in the assessment of anxiety and depression in patients with COPD in routine healthcare encounters and pulmonary rehabilitation, assess the severity of depression and anxiety in patients identified by screening, and identify when to refer patients to mental health specialists. The information shared will enable healthcare professionals to answer any questions that patients may have and to provide more holistic management for patients with COPD.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the assessment of depression and anxiety in patients with COPD, including evaluation for psychosocial factors, medical risk factors and the impact of comorbidities.
- Devise and plan discussions of anxiety and depression, including appropriate treatment strategies, for patients with COPD in combination with their medical treatment.
- Evaluate current recommendations for managing the symptoms of mild, moderate, and severe depression and anxiety in patients with COPD, including criteria for referral to a mental health specialist.
- Explain the benefits of exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and pharmacology (antidepressant drug therapy) for patients with COPD and recognize that exercise benefits patients with depression and anxiety.
Assessment Skills for Evaluating Candidates for Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Outpatient Respiratory Services
Thursday, September 18 | 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): Missy Von Luehtre; Maria Correa; Lisa Smith; Aimee Kizzar
Overview: This session will prepare the pulmonary clinician in conducting a comprehensive PR/ORS intake. Attendee will enhance their assessment skills and critical thinking during the initial intake to develop an effective individualized treatment plan to ensure optimal patient and program outcomes. Attendees will have the opportunity to touch and feel the tools being discussed.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Apply intake assessment skills to determine appropriate candidates for PR/ORS.
- Incorporate knowledge of various respiratory tools: medication devices, airway clearance, peak flow meter, POCs/pulse oximeters/sensors to assist in the pulmonary assessment.
- Recognize disease specific assessment and interventions to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Discuss charge capture options for the intake assessment.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Rehabilitation Therapies for Diseases Other Than COPD
Thursday, September 18 | 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Katherine Menson
Overview: There is growing evidence on the efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation programs and exercise training for diseases other than COPD. As this data grows, patients should be counseled on the expected benefits of rehabilitation therapies based on the data that is available. Review of exercise and education modifications for disease-specific presentations can be future directions for program adaptation with the review of this material.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Identify the differences in outcomes for ILD patients in PR and similar models.
- Describe how airway disease impacts exercise and quality of life, and why they are not captured by traditional metrics.
- Describe most updated evidence for PR in post-acute sequalae of SARS-CoV-2.
Sex on the Beach: 2025 Pulmonary Rehabilitation Update
Thursday, September 18 | 2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Gerene Bauldoff
Overview: This session discusses the importance of assessment and education regarding sex and intimate behaviors for patients enrolled in pulmonary rehabilitation. Topics include pathophysiologic changes and pharmacotherapies that impact sexual function. Also discussed are professional development activities to reduce staff discomfort when interacting with their patients on this topic.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- List 3 chronic lung disease pathophysiologic changes that negatively impact sexual performance.
- Discuss the impact of common pharmacotherapies used in chronic lung disease and their impact on sexual function.
- Describe sexual activities and positions that reduce pulmonary symptoms during intimate behaviors.
- List staff edcuation activities to promote comfort in approaching the topic of sex with PR patients.
Let's Talk About Death
Thursday, September 18 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Julia O’Shea; Alex Worl
Overview: Talking about death can be seen as a societal taboo. Can we start these conversations sooner to help people prepare for a life process that we all will eventually face? This session will highlight topics around education with end-of-life planning and open discussion around ways PR programs can be part of the multi-disciplinary team in Palliative Care. Open discussion around how difficult these conversations can be not only for the patient but for the clinician as well.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss how to approach the discussion with patients around medical decision making including advanced directives, DNR/COLST, and appointing a healthcare proxy. Review of resources available to support this education both nationally and locally.
- Discuss how to incorporate education about Palliative Care and Hospice in ways that help patients to be prepared for future decisions. Including ways to help identify when or where this conversation could happen, both individually and as group education.
- Discuss how PR fits into the multidisciplinary Palliative care model to support respiratory patients at various stages of their disease process. Including symptom management of breathlessness, fatigue, anxiety, and disease education.
- Review measurement tools for the clinician to help identify symptom progression, assessing functional status, and disease trajectory.
The Impact of Inspiratory Muscle Training in Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Diaphragmatic Eventration: A Targeted Approach to Improve Outcomes
Thursday, September 18 | 5:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Amal Albatini
Overview: Diaphragmatic eventration, characterized by abnormal elevation of the hemidiaphragm, often leads to compromised lung function, reduced inspiratory capacity, and dyspnea. Inspiratory muscle training (IMT) is an emerging modality in pulmonary rehabilitation that has shown promise in addressing these challenges by strengthening the diaphragm and other respiratory muscles. This presentation will discuss the role of IMT within a structured PR program for patients with diaphragmatic eventration. Drawing on clinical evidence and case studies, we will examine how IMT can improve respiratory mechanics, enhance functional capacity, and positively impact the quality of life in this patient population.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the pathophysiological impacts of diaphragmatic eventration on pulmonary function.
- Review clinical evidence demonstrating the efficacy of IMT for diaphragmatic dysfunction.
- Review the use of outcome measures, including changes and improvements in spirometry, dyspnea scores, and functional capacity.
- Analyze the principles and application of inspiratory muscle training in pulmonary rehabilitation.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: 2025 Year in Review
Friday, September 19 | 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Brian Carlin
Overview: This session will focus on the latest research in the field of pulmonary rehabilitation with an emphasis on how to incorporate those research results into clinical practice.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- List three recent research findings in the field of pulmonary rehabilitation
- Develop an implementation plan of these findings into their rehab program
- List three new findings in the treatment of patients with COPD.
Maximizing the Benefits of Pulmonary Rehabilitation Models in the Pre-Operative Period
Friday, September 19 | 1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Katherine Menson
Overview: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) has demonstrated utility in those with stable but symptomatic lung disease, and those in the post-hospitalization period, however there is less data regarding utility in the pre-surgical population. This session will review pre- and perioperative utilization of PR models for patients undergoing lung cancer resection, and why those with lung cancer have co-morbidities that put them at higher risk for treatment complications and lack of response to treatment. While programs across the country are facing long wait lists, this session will describe models of utilizing prehabilitation for those undergoing lung cancer treatment and utilizing the pre-operative period to improve treatment outcomes.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the history of pulmonary rehabilitation and what expected outcomes we see in those with COPD.
- Review how exercise therapy and PR has been utilized in the pre- and post-surgical population, and similar models applied to those with lung cancer.
- Differentiate the risks of surgery in those who smoke, and the timing of interventions to improve those outcomes.
Check the Technique: The Importance of Inhaler Selection and Assessment
Friday, September 19 | 1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Mike Hess
Overview: Aerosol medications have long been a mainstay of treatment for asthma, COPD, and many lung diseases. Unfortunately, research tells us that most patients do not use their inhaler devices correctly, leading to lowered drug delivery and worsening outcomes. The explosion of new devices in recent years means many clinicians are having a harder and harder time keeping up with teaching proper technique instruction. This session will cover the basic characteristics of various inhaler devices, why ongoing assessment is so important, and tools available to help instruction.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Compare performance characteristics of aerosol delivery devices (MDIs, DPIs, SMIs, and nebulizers)
- Identify user factors that can affect medication dose delivery
- Discuss the use of various teaching and assessment tools to improve patient performance
- Implement evidence-based practices to improve patient-device synchrony and reduce inadvertent nonadherence
Applying the Newest AACVPR Pulmonary Rehabilitation Guidelines 2025
Friday, September 19 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Gerene Bauldoff; Brian Carlin; Ash Walker
Overview: The newest edition of the AACVPR’s Guidelines for Pulmonary Rehabiltation is scheduled for release later this year. This session will focus on the newest updates to these guidelines as well as principles for their application into your program.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- List three new updates to the guidelines for the provision of pulmonary rehabilitation.
- Name ways to implement two of these guidelines into your program
- Develop a strategy for the implementation of further guidelines into your program.
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Program Management and Innovation
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Applying Highlighted Updates from the Latest Edition of the ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription
Wednesday, September 17 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Paul Gallo; Jeffrey Christle; Amanda Bonikowske
Overview: Significant updates and additions have been made in the 12th edition of ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription to reflect contemporary, evidence-based practice. Special emphasis was placed on presenting information in a manner that can be implemented in testing labs and exercise rehabilitation programs. Noteworthy changes and additions to this edition include broadening the section on resistance training principles, providing guidance on identifying cardiac and/or pulmonary limitations during a cardiopulmonary exercise test and adding new sections that describe how to work with individuals with POTS, SCAD, or ME/CFS, in addition to outlining respiratory muscle training protocols.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Describe relevant updates to the guidelines.
- Apply updated testing practices when working with individuals.
- Apply updated exercise prescription and monitoring practices when working with individuals.
Thursday, September 18 | 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): Megan Gross; Quinn Pack; Mark Stout
Overview: This session focuses on increasing utilization of the evidence-based and practice-informed strategies in the Million Hearts/AACVPR Cardiac Rehabilitation Change Package, 2nd Edition (CRCP) and increasing awareness of supplemental quality improvement tools and resources. The session will begin with a brief overview of the CRCP, its utility to date (referencing AACVPR survey data where appropriate), and supplemental tools and resources (e.g., patient educational resources, summary of vocational rehabilitation services, hospital-specific cardiac rehabilitation performance reports). Three speakers will discuss the change idea(s) they implemented, and the impact or lessons learned from their implementation. A question-and-answer session will wrap up the session to motivate others to implement the CRCP and/or apply insights shared by the speakers.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Share preliminary data on the utility of the CRCP and newly available quality improvement tools and resources
- Increase awareness of the high impact strategies to increase cardiac rehabilitation participation within the CRCP
- Recognize and celebrate the achievements of at least three quality improvement Champions
- Explore opportunities to scale and spread implementation of strategies to improve program quality
Building Sustainabe Phase 1 Programs
Thursday, September 18 | 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Matthew Thomas
Overview: The session will explore key strategies for developing a robust and sustainable Phase I Cardiopulmonary Rehab program. We will discuss the early mobilization protocols, strategies for securing administrative buy-in, optimal staffing models, and practical approaches to enhancing patient conversion (adherence/attendance) to Phase 2 cardiac rehabilitation. Attendees will gain valuable insights and practical tools to improve or create their own Phase 1 program.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the benefits of early mobilization in Phase 1 cardiac rehabilitation and identify key components of successful early mobilization protocols.
- Develop strategies for obtaining administrative buy-in and securing necessary resources to support a robust Phase 1 delivery.
- Analyze staffing models and idfntify appropriate staffing levels and skill sets to ensure safe and effective delivery of Phase 1 services.
- Implement strategies to enhance patient adherence to Phase 1 and facilitate a smooth transition to Phase 2 services, including strategies for improving enrollment and adherence.
Make Prevention a Priority: Sharing Metabolic Syndrome Program Challenges and Success
Thursday, September 18 | 2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Virginia (Ginny) Dow; Julia Elliot
Overview: Individuals with metabolic syndrome are at a 2-fold and 5-fold greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes, respectively. This is particularly troubling when considering the steady rise in the number of individuals with metabolic syndrome. Intervening early and supporting individuals with metabolic syndrome can help slow the progression of chronic health conditions, improve health span, and lower the resulting financial burdens at the individual and system wide level. The Emerson Metabolic Syndrome program was created to do precisely this with a multidisciplinary staff delivering tailored lifestyle interventions. The program follows evidence-based practices that leverage a small group model targeting health promotion and behavior change. In addition to reviewing the program’s design and implementation considerations, we will review patient experiences, success stories, and troubleshooting considerations. Existing secondary prevention programs should strongly consider adopting a similar model if we wish to make a significant impact on saving a million lives.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe criteria and prevalence for metabolic syndrome in both men, women and minorities
- Discuss impact of metabolic disease on risk for heart disease and diabetes, in particular microvascular disease, MINOCA, risk of MI
- Describe steps to implement a metabolic prevention program in the cardiac rehab setting
- Share metabolic syndrome case studies, patient outcomes , program successes and roadblocks from past 17 years
Can I Afford a Dietician? Adding Nutrition Counseling and Other Ancillary Services to Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Programs
Thursday, September 18 | 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kelly Ellington; Wendy Johnson
Overview: It has been well-established that registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) contribute invaluable expertise to Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab programs to improve patient outcomes and quality of life. However, not all programs may have access to an RDN. This session will offer insight into one health system’s journey to add nutrition counseling and other ancillary services to Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab. The audience will come away with strategies to advocate for and maintain additional FTEs to support the educational needs of rehab participants, including nutrition and beyond.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Recognize the benefits of including nutrition counseling and medical nutrition therapy by an RDN in Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab programs
- Identify at least one appropriate billing code for ancillary services
- Describe at least one strategy to advocate for additional FTEs to support the educational needs of rehab participants
The Do's and Don'ts of Implementing a Pediatric Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Thursday, September 18 | 5:15 – 6:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Jessica Pavlock; Daniel Ziebell
Overview: Implementing a pediatric cardiac rehabilitation program involves addressing unique challenges across clinical, developmental, and operational domains. This talk will discuss how exercise physiologists tailor interventions to meet the specific physiological, emotional, and developmental needs of patients while ensuring safe exercise prescriptions. We will review how we evaluate program outcomes, monitor the progress of the patients, program operations, and administrative tasks. This talk will highlight how to approach these challenges.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Manage program operations, administrative tasks, and engaging stakeholders
- Evaluate outcomes and ensuring program sustainability
- Develop and deliver tailored rehabilitation plans
- Summarize pediatric conditions and rehabilitation needs
The Clinical Exercise Physiologist: Creating a Tool-kit for Healthcare Administrators
Friday, September 19 | 8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Speaker(s): Cemal Ozemek; Ash Walker; Laura Richardson
Overview: Interactive discussion on tools needed for advocating for CEPs with healthcare administrators. Goal to Develop Call to Action for a CEP Tool Kit: Reinforce the value of integrating Clinical Exercise Physiologists into healthcare systems supporting the CR workforce, ensuring long-term benefits for both patients and the organization. The presentation will engage the audience for input and ideas for how a toolkit could be designed.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Describe the benefits CEP provide to improve staffing model
- Discuss ideas and best practices that may be helpful in designing a CEP tool kit
- Recognize the benefits CEP contribute to the multidisciplinary team
Outperform the Performance Measures: Increase Your Program's Enrollment & Adherence
Friday, September 19 | 1:45 – 2:30 p.m.
Speaker(s): Betsy Hart
Overview: Learn innovative ways to lower your wait times for improved enrollment and enhance patient retention and adherence.
CE Credit(s): 0.75
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss reducing wait times from order to enrollment.
- Explain redesigning staffing roles and customizing scheduling to improve new patient orientations
- Identify ways to increase patient engagement using data driven goal setting
- Describe utilizing flexible class times and education models to increase efficiency.
Prepare for Program Certification
Friday, September 19 | 2:45 – 4:00 p.m.
Speaker(s): Kara Sweere; Julie Dunagan
Overview: AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other professional societies. AACVPR-certified programs are recognized as leaders in their field because they offer the most advanced, evidence-based practices and care. This session will provide an overview of each page of the 2026 certification application and insight on how to successfully complete the certification process. We will discuss how to avoid common mistakes as well as provide an in-depth review of ITP requirements, common errors and pitfalls, and finding ways to improve your program’s ITPs. Programs seeking AACVPR Certification for the first time, and those renewing their certification are encouraged to attend.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the requirements for each page of the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation certification application.
- Describe the Program Certification Performance Measures.
- Identify common errors and omissions on program certification applications.
- Describe the required elements of the ITP for Program Certification and diagnose common issues and pitfalls.
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Oral Abstract Presentations
Thursday, September 18 | 10:30 – 11:45 a.m.
Overview: AACVPR strives to provide diverse educational opportunities for its members. During this session, authors will present their peer-reviewed research in a specific topic area, and presentations will be moderated by experts in the field.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss abstract research findings.
- Assess nature and execution of research.
- Analyze abstract research findings.
Beginning Investigator Presentations
Thursday, September 18 | 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Overview: The Beginning Investigator Award is given to outstanding researchers who are within five years of their latest degree or final training (i.e., fellowship, residency) and who have not previously won the award. Six scientific abstracts are chosen as finalists for this award, and each is given a platform presentation during a special session at the AACVPR Annual Meeting. The presentations are then judged by the AACVPR Research Committee.
CE Credit(s): 1.25
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss abstract research findings.
- Assess the nature and execution of the research.
- Analyze abstract research findings.
AACVPR Data Analytic Center: 2025 Update
Thursday, September 18 | 2:45 – 3:45 p.m.
Speaker(s): Quinn Pack; Todd Brown
Overview: This session will update attendees on the work of the Data Analytic Center, present preliminary data from the registries and outline the process for research submissions.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Discuss the purpose and mission of the AACVPR Data Analytics Center.
- Discuss the variables and content of the Cardiac Rehabilitation and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Registry.
- Describe the current research projects that have been completed by the DAC team in 2024 and 2025.
- Describe the process to submit ideas for publications.
Lead Academy
Friday, September 19 | 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): TBD
Overview: TBD
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
JCRP Highlights: From the Journal to Your Program
Friday, September 19 | 10:45 – 11:45 a.m.
Speaker(s): Todd Brown, MD, MSPH, FACC, FAHA, MAACVPR
Overview: This session will highlight selected studies that have appeared in the Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation and Prevention (JCRP) during the past year. The presenters will briefly review the rationale (i.e., importance and relevance of the study), key findings and the potential impact on cardiopulmonary rehabilitation (CR) programming. The goal of the session is to highlight the most impactful and clinically relevant research that was published in JCRP. The session will also "translate" the research results so that rehabilitative professionals can integrate the findings into their clinical practice to meaningfully impact patient health outcomes.
CE Credit(s): 1.00
Learning Objectives:
- Explain the clinical significance of selected research studies that appeared in JCRP.
- Summarize the content and the conclusions of the selected studies.
- Describe ways to apply the information conveyed in the session to their current practice.
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